Getting Established in Canada

For you to feel at home as quickly as possible, there are some things you'll want to do right away. One of the first things on your list might be to get Canadian identification. You may also need information on getting a job, finding a place to live and going to school. This section will point you in the right direction.

Getting work, healthcare and residency documents

Here are links to Canadian government sites with information on some of the documents you'll need to start your new life, including a Social Insurance Number, a provincial health card and a permanent residence card.

Finding a job

Canada's overall employment rate is high. It varies across the country, based on differences in regional industries and resources. Learn more about employment trends in each province.

If you earned your professional designation outside of Canada, you will need to determine if there is a Canadian equivalent.

There are many resources available to help you find a job, including government programs and placement agencies. Local newspapers and the Internet are also good sources of job listings.

CIBC employs thousands of people across Canada. We are strongly committed to a fair and inclusive work environment. One of our clear objectives is to provide equal employment opportunities, so that people of all backgrounds can realize their full potential as part of a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. Take a look at our job listings.

Many people find employment by starting their own business. CIBC has the resources to help small business owners in many ways.

Finding a place to live

Do you plan to own your home or rent? Are you interested in a house, apartment or condominium? Your local newspaper and the Internet have listings of places to rent or buy. Real estate agents are also a good source of information.

If you decide to buy a home and require financing, CIBC can help you find the mortgage that's right for you. For more information, visit our Mortgages section or contact us.

Going to school

If you have young children or if you're interested in going back to school, education will matter to you. Canada has a world-class education system and is one of the world leaders for literacy.

In Canada, children aged 6 to 16 must go to either public school (which is free) or one of the many secular or religious private schools. Canada also has world-class colleges and universities across the country. These are not free, but there are government programs that may help to pay some of the costs.

Adult education is also available to help develop and upgrade skills. Adult and children's courses are available to improve English and French language skills.

The Canadian government works with provincial governments, local school boards, community colleges, and immigrant and community organizations to offer free language training across the country for adult permanent residents. Learn more about these programs.

Talk to a CIBC advisor about how to plan for the expenses of a post-secondary education by investing in a CIBC Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) or contact us for more information.